Reckless driving is a misdemeanor offense in California.
If you're caught, you could face harsh penalties, including fines, license points, and even jail time. But what exactly is reckless driving, and how does it impact your record?
What Counts as Reckless Driving?
California defines reckless driving as "the intentional disregard for the safety of others or their property while displaying an overall disregard for the rules of the road."
That means anything from excessive speeding to road rage could land you in trouble.
There are a few common reckless driving charges in California:
Standard Reckless Driving – A basic reckless driving charge with a misdemeanor charge.
Reckless Driving for Commercial Purposes – When reckless driving is tied to filming or advertisements.
Reckless Driving with Injuries – If someone gets hurt because of reckless driving, penalties are much harsher.
Penalties for Reckless Driving in California
A reckless driving misdemeanor charge carries severe consequences. You could face:
A fine of up to $2,500
Up to six months in jail
Up to two years of probation
Two NOTS points on your driver’s license
A possible 30-day vehicle impoundment, with towing and storage at the owner’s expense, which could be $1,500 or more.
A license suspension for up to six months
Plus, expect a double or triple increase in your car insurance rates. Some providers might even drop you altogether.
Long-Term Consequences of a Reckless Driving Conviction
A conviction for a reckless driving charge affects more than just your wallet. Here’s what you should consider:
Higher Insurance Costs – Your rates could double or triple.
Employment Issues – Jobs requiring a clean driving record may no longer be an option.
Community Standing – A criminal record can affect personal relationships and opportunities.
Harsher Penalties for Future Offenses – One reckless driving charge makes future violations more serious.
Defending Against Reckless Driving Charges
If you're facing reckless driving charges in Shafter, Kern County, CA, you need a strong defense. Possible defenses include:
Lack of Intent – If you didn’t recklessly disregard safety, the charge may not hold up.
Emergency Situations – Proving you acted to avoid danger could help.
Mistaken Identity – If the officer got it wrong, you shouldn’t take the fall.
Evidence Challenges – Radar readings and officer observations aren’t always accurate.
Procedural Errors – If the stop was illegal, your case might get dismissed.
Why You Need a Lawyer for a Misdemeanor Charge
A reckless driving misdemeanor charge can have lasting consequences.
Hiring a traffic attorney with trial experience can help reduce or even dismiss the charge.
At Bigger & Harman, APC, we’ve been practicing only traffic law for more than a decade. We’ll fight for your rights and work toward the best possible outcome.
If you’ve been charged with reckless driving in Shafter, don’t go it alone. Contact Bigger & Harman, APC today for a free consultation.
Consult Bigger & Harman About a Misdemeanor Charge of Reckless Driving in Kern County
If you’ve been charged with reckless driving, invoke your “right to remain silent,” make no statement without an attorney, and call Bigger & Harman, APC, at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español 349-9755.
Unless we can get it reduced to an infraction, your misdemeanor trial will be in Shafter Courthouse in Kern County. However, we also practice in Bakersfield, Ridgecrest, Delano, Lamont, and Mojave.
Use the handy online contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
References:
The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2025.
CA VC Section 23103, Reckless Driving.